A private jet checks all the right boxes for traveling in style and comfort. More personal space, no waiting in lines, a higher level of privacy, and the ability to fly directly from one destination to another are but a few benefits that await you aboard a private airplane.

However, is that all that makes the checklist for selecting an air charter service?

If you’re opting for a premium travel experience, then shouldn’t your criteria be a bit more extensive?

Believing that all private air charter brokers are the same is akin to saying that a Boeing 747 is the same as an Airbus A320 — sure, they both fly, but it’s the finer details that make them drastically different. So, here are five elements to consider when hiring an air charter service:

1. Safety Record

Safety is one of those no-room-for-compromise factors that should be at the top of your list. Air charter brokers are only as good as the fleet of their affiliated operators — this includes the aircraft, their maintenance history, the safety protocols they follow and the proficiency of their pilots.

Action Item: Look for an air charter service that only works with reputable aviation partners who prioritize the well-being of their guests and undergo rigorous, frequent inspections by regulatory bodies such as the General Civil Aviation Authority.

2. Aircraft Options

Thereason for your trip, the number of passengers in your party, and the distance you intend to cover will likely dictate the type of aircraft you’ll need.

If you’re traveling with more than five people, you may require a larger, more spacious airplane like a midsize or super-midsize jet; if your destination is more than two hours away, a light jet or turboprop is probably not a good choice.

An air charter broker with a comprehensive network of affiliates and a diverse fleet of aircraft and cabin configurations will prove an invaluable asset here. They’ll easily be able to match your private jet needs with the ideal aircraft for the job.

Action Item: Make a mental note of all your trip requirements. For example, business trips where you have to attend meetings at multiple locations, regular family holidays with planned itineraries, or a beloved pet that has to come along for the flight. Then, discuss these needs with your air charter service candidate and see if they have the right planes to address them.

3. Flexibility

How adaptable is the air charter service to changes in your flight details?

If you need to make last-minute changes to your flight, like scheduling adjustments, adding extra stops or bringing more passengers, can they accommodate your request and get you up in the air as soon as possible?

Action Item: Narrow your search to air charter brokers with customizable services and account managers available 24/7 to respond to any short-notice requirements and ensure a smooth flight experience.

4. Years of Experience

Don’t discount the years of experience a prospective air charter service has in the industry because, unlike commercial flights where you usually feel you’re at the whim of an airline, private jet charter flights must be tailored to your needs — and only a seasoned broker with an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction can deliver that.

They should adopt a consultative approach to assessing your service requirements, where they work with you to find the best solution to quickly, efficiently and cost-effectively meet your needs.

Additionally, over the years, they will have formed strong working relationships with multinational operators, airports and even governments — all of which they can leverage to satisfy your travel requirements.

Action Item: Aim to find a service provider with decades of experience in the business. Once you’ve identified a few candidates, look closely at their history, clientele, and customer reviews to gauge their reputation and decide if they’re the right fit for you.

5. Additional Services

Air charter services are no longer confined to flying people from point A to point B. Many of them now offer other services like cargo shipping, where you can transport large volumes of goods to locations that might not always be covered under regular air freight carrier routes or within timescales necessary for perishable and time-sensitive items.

They also provide air ambulance services that transport patients swiftly to medical facilities where they can have access to immediate assistance and treatment. These planes have ICU-trained paramedical teams on board as well as the latest medical equipment for patients to receive the best possible care while in transit.

While you may not need these added options, it’s always a good idea to opt for an air charter broker with a service portfolio that’s extensive enough to address several contingencies.

Action Item: Take a few minutes to read the range of services and offerings available under an air charter service’s purview. If you come across one with ancillary services that may be useful to you in the future, this might be your top contender.

Fly With Confidence

Your choice of an air charter service provider will be instrumental in ensuring you get from one destination to another without a hitch — whether for business or leisure.

With these five criteria in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to book a private jet with the service that best meets your needs and gives you complete peace of mind when you take to the skies.